Easily one of the top ten most visited cities in the country, Washington, DC draws in quite the crowd of tourists from all over the world. With so many visitors to the nation’s capital, is it any surprise you’ll find three major airports near Washington, DC?
Washington Dulles Airport buzzes with international arrivals. Meanwhile, plenty of domestic travelers shuffle through the more subdued Reagan National Airport. Of course, you’ll undoubtedly want to know which is the best airport for your next trip to the center of US politics and history.
For those details and more on dining and shopping experiences inside DC’s airports, strap in. We’ll take you through all the particulars so that you can decide for yourself the best airport in Washington, DC.
Table of Contents
- What Airport Should I Fly Into for Washington, DC?
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
- Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI)
- Next Vacay Can Send the Best Washington, DC Airport Deals Straight to Your Inbox
What Airport Should I Fly Into for Washington, DC?
DC is home to three major airports: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), and Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI).
- DCA: Closest airport to downtown
- IAD: Largest international airport
- BWI: Budget-friendly airport
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
Just south of downtown Washington, DC, across the Potomac River, sits Ronald Reagan National Airport in Virginia. Less than five miles separate travelers landing at Ronald Reagan National Airport from landmark monuments like the White House and the Lincoln Memorial.
If you’re looking for a convenient option to land you right in the heart of Washington, DC, the Reagan Airport should be your top choice. It’s the closest airport to downtown DC and offers nonstop flights to and from over 100 cities.
However, that doesn’t include many international flights. So, if you’re coming in on a long-haul flight from overseas, you can’t fly directly into Reagan Airport.
For this reason, Washington Dulles Airport may end up being a better alternative for foreign arrivals.
Which Airlines Fly Out of DCA?
Ronald Reagan National Airport is the smallest of the three airports serving the greater Washington, DC area. However, it still offers a range of airlines for travelers to book their next flight.
These eight airlines operate out of DCA’s two terminals: Terminal A and Terminal B/C.
Terminal A consists of gates 1-9 and services flights via Air Canada, Frontier, and Southwest. The remaining five airlines fly out of gates 10-59 located in Terminal B/C.
Because the DCA Airport is a hub for American Airlines, it’s the only airline occupying gates 35-59 and shares gates 23-34 with JetBlue.
Alaska, Delta, and United operate out of the remaining gates numbered 10-23.
Regardless of the terminal, getting downtown is easy via the metro station, on either the Blue or Yellow Lines. Taxi and rental car services are available; however, using the metro system in DC will be the most budget-friendly option.
Where to Shop at DCA
Most shops at Reagan Airport are located in the National Hall. Prior to 2021, this was only accessible pre-screening and meant you had to get your timing down to do your shopping before heading through security. Thankfully, that’s no longer the case!
In 2021, the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for two new security checkpoints located before the National Hall. Now travelers can move freely between gates 10-59 and peruse the National Hall shops.
Smithsonian Museum Store: To start—or end—your Smithsonian souvenir shopping, you can dip into this haven of books, gems, and stationary. (National Hall)
Pens & Prose: Pop in and stock up on all the writing tools, paper, and specialty books you need to write about your magical experiences in the nation’s capital. (National Hall)
WASHINGTONIAN: You can grab any last-minute necessities here, including flight snacks and travel accessories. (National Hall)
You can also visit classic stores like Vineyard Vines, Brooks Brothers, and Sunglass Hut.
Terminal A has fewer shopping options, but you’ll still find enough to kill some time pre-flight. Stop in at Duty Free Americas, and you can shop brand names like Coach, Tommy Hilfiger, and Victoria’s Secret.
Top Spots to Dine at DCA
The dining options at Reagan National Airport will satisfy any cravings. You’ll find plenty of familiar faces in joints like Five Guys, Dunkin’ Donuts, Starbucks, and Chick-fil-A.
Familiar is good. But, we recommend branching out and trying one of these restaurants inside Reagan National Airport. They’re sure to be a treat.
Page: Get a first taste or a last bite of DC staples like Pimento Cheese Dip and Virginia She Crab Soup. (Gates 1-9, post-security)
Ben’s Chili Bowl: You don’t even have to leave the airport to experience this DC favorite of spicy half-smokes and creamy milkshakes. (National Hall, post-security)
Cava Mezze Grill: This quick and casual restaurant offers a mix of Mediterranean flavors in a bowl you create yourself. (Gates 10-22, post-security)
El Centro F.B.: From Taco Tuesday to Bottomless Brunch and Happy Hour, anytime is a great time to stop in for a salt-rimmed margarita and cheesy queso. (Gates 23-34, post-security)
&pizza: Doughy goodness and saucy flavor. Truly, the specialty-made pies and knots will never steer you wrong. They’re also the perfect choice for a quick bite. (Gates 35-45, post-security)
Wolfgang Puck Bar & Bites: The perfect place to stop for a quick bite or a smart cocktail. (Gates 46-58, post-security)
Top 10 Departures Out of DCA
DCA has daily domestic flights running to over thirty-five US states. Additionally, you’ll find a few international flights to Canada and the Caribbean. While these might be the destinations travelers can’t get enough of, there’s no telling where adventure can take you out of Reagan National.
1. Atlanta
Courtesy of American, Delta, and Southwest, around 15-20 daily flights operate out of DCA to Atlanta.
2. Chicago
Travelers can choose to fly into either O’Hare or Midway airports. American and United fly into O’Hare while Southwest flies into Midway.
3. Charlotte
American Airlines operates around 7-9 daily flights from DCA to the Charlotte airport.
4. Miami
All flights headed to Miami are operated by DCA’s leading airline, American.
5. Boston
Boston sees a few dozen daily flights flown by American, Delta, and JetBlue. That means plenty of competition to score a great-priced nonstop flight.
6. Dallas
Dallas has two airport options. The service to Fort Worth International is flown by American Airlines, while Southwest services the Love Field regional airport.
7. Orlando
American, JetBlue, and Southwest operate around a dozen daily flights to Orlando.
8. Los Angeles
Alaska, American, and Delta service a few flights on this east coast to west coast journey.
9. Denver
Frontier and United share a handful of daily nonstop flights out to this midwest gem.
10. New York
American and Delta fly passengers to both New York City airports—JFK and LGA—though most fly into LaGuardia Airport.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
The busiest airport in the DC metro area is Washington Dulles International Airport. It’s located in Dulles, Virginia, over 25 miles away from downtown Washington.
Not exactly the quick, five-minute quick cab ride into downtown you’ll get flying into Reagan. The commute is why this airport isn’t for anyone hoping to touch down amid DC’s hustle and bustle.
But, if you’re coming into Washington, DC from an international airport, Washington Dulles is your best option. The airport services nonstop flights to and from international destinations on several continents.
Which Airlines Fly Out of IAD?
The Washington Dulles Airport is easily the largest airport in the DC area, consisting of one main terminal and two parallel buildings. In total, IAD has five concourses and 113 gates supporting the 36 airlines that fly in and out.
Washington Dulles Airport is a United Airlines hub, so its planes occupy the second concourse building housing Concourses C and D.
The majority of foreign carriers—Virgin Atlantic, Etihad, etc.—fly out of Concourse A.
Concourse B is home to both foreign and domestic carriers including Aer Lingus, Delta, Ethiopian, Southwest, and others.
Transportation between the main terminal and concourses is quick and easy. The automated rail service, AeroTrain, carries passengers underground between buildings.
Where to Shop at IAD
Most of the shops at IAD Airport are located beyond the main terminal and security checkpoints. However, you can nab some last-minute necessities at a few shops prior to security screening.
Once you’ve passed through security, you have access to all the luxury shops inside concourses A, B, C, D, and Z. That means plenty of options to while away the time before your flight.
Montblanc: For a luxury find, you can stop in and browse Montblanc’s quality products. They provide everything from eyewear to jewelry and fragrances. (Concourse A)
L’Occitane: For a last-minute gift set or some TSA-friendly toiletries, treat yourself to a bit of French indulgence. (Concourse B)
Coach: Purses to carry your every last need and a passport holder to carry only the essentials. Coach offers up beautiful pieces sure to catch your eye. (Concourse B)
Be Relax Spa: Relax and pamper yourself with a manicure, pedicure, or full-body massage. The best way to de-stress before a long flight. (Gate A32 and Gate B64)
You can also shop Duty Free Americas in nearly every concourse at Washington Dulles International:
- Concourse A Near Gate A32
- Concourse B Near Gate B63
- Concourse C Near Gate C4
- Concourse D Near Gate D12
Top Spots to Dine at IAD
With a mix of quick bites and leisurely dining experiences, Washington Dulles Airport offers up a buffet of food options that are sure to tickle the taste buds of even the pickiest eaters.
The Firkin & Fox: At the bottom of concourse A on level 0, enjoy a classic fish and chips dish. Or, treat your palette to other London-esque cuisines at this quirky British-style pub. (Concourse A)
DC-3 Hot Dogs: Chow down on a variety of hot dogs and tasty treats like fried Oreos and pickles. Or, if yours is an early flight, try a breakfast pastry or soft bagel with cream cheese. (Concourse B)
Chef Geoff’s: Enjoy cold beers and classic American-style plates from a local favorite. (Concourse C)
Potbelly Sandwich Shop: Order a custom sandwich and treat yourself to a milkshake and cookies before your flight takes off. (Concourse D)
Top 10 Departures Out of IAD
As the biggest international airport supporting the DC metropolitan area, Washington Dulles International Airport has the hookup for flights all around the globe.
Travelers can hop on a nonstop flight to 82 domestic destinations, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. In addition, you’ll find 58 more international destinations to continents like Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
You can fly anywhere with so many options. But, these are some suggestions of the most popular routes out of Washington Dulles Airport.
1. Denver
Together, United, and Southwest service around ten daily flights to Denver.
2. Frankfurt
United and Lufthansa both fly daily nonstop routes to Frankfurt.
3. Atlanta
Atlanta is another airport juggernaut on the east coast. Because of that, it sees frequent flights, around ten per day, from Washington Dulles Airport on Delta, United, and Southwest.
4. London
Both United and British Airways fly passengers on direct flights to London.
5. Los Angeles
United and Alaska Airlines make the journey from coast to coast, providing a handful of daily flights from the US capital to the west coast marvel of Hollywood.
6. San Francisco
Another west coast destination, United is the only airline to fly this route out of Washington Dulles Airport. It may be good to check surrounding departure/arrival airports to compare prices.
7. Ethiopia
Only one foreign carrier, Ethiopian, flies direct to Addis Ababa in Ethiopia.
8. San Salvador
Avianca, United, and Volaris Costa Rico service a handful of direct flights from Washington Dulles Airport to San Salvador.
9. Orlando
Direct flights between Washington, DC and Orlando are serviced by United and Southwest airlines.
10. Houston
Only United operates flights between Washington IAD and Houston IAH.
Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI)
Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport has a mouthful of a name, so it’s more commonly referred to as BWI. The last of the three airports serving the DC area is also the furthest away, 40 miles from downtown Washington, DC.
However, the distance doesn’t mean you should ignore this airport. It’s still a convenient and affordable option for flying, especially if you’re arriving via Southwest.
Due to its smaller size, many travelers prefer the less hectic airport experience BWI offers over Washington Dulles Airport. That said, it does offer fewer international flights.
On top of that, BWI also presents more of a challenge in getting into the city. Travelers can rent a car—as taxi rides will get expensive from BWI—or hop the Amtrak train to Union Station. Regional MARC trains also connect to Union Station as well.
Which Airlines Fly Out of BWI?
Baltimore Washington Airport has one main terminal building in the shape of a U. Five concourses extend from the main building to serve the seventeen airlines at BWI Airport.
Concourse A and Concourse B are reserved for Southwest flights, while Southwest, American, and Contour use Concourse C.
Most airlines operating out of BWI use Concourse D, including Air Canada, Alaska, Allegiant, Boutique, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Spirit, Sun Country, and United.
The final concourse, E, is considered the international concourse. For that reason, it services the remaining foreign carriers and international flights from Air Senegal, British Airways, Condor, Icelandair, and Southwest.
Where to Shop at BWI
Nearly all of the shops at BWI can be accessed after passing security.
Concourses A, B, and C are all connected so that travelers can move freely between shops and gates on that side of the airport. Concourses D and E are connected but separated from the other concourses by a different security checkpoint.
Marika: Pop into the first-ever branded retail store for Marika to browse athleisure wear, water bottles, tote bags, and more. (Concourse A)
The Body Shop: If you want to freshen up, the eco-friendly products at The Body Shop are the way to go. For on-the-go shopping in DC, they also have another location at Union Station. (Concourse A/B)
Kiehl’s: This luxury shopping destination offers top-quality skincare products for men and women, so you can treat yourself or pick up a quick gift. (B/C Connector)
Sock It To You: This fun store is a Baltimore original packed with hundreds of styles of socks. An easy way to brighten up your travel day. (Concourse C)
NYS Collection: If you left your sunglasses at home, this New York branded eyewear boutique is sure to provide your next favorite pair. (Concourse C & Concourse D)
La Boutique: Full of brand names from Marc Jacobs to Estee Lauder, you can fulfill any cosmetic needs or nab the ideal gift. (Concourse D)
Top Spots to Dine at BWI
The BWI Airport serves up some of the best dining options to enjoy your next meal. So, before heading out on that flight, don’t miss out on eating at any one of these restaurants.
Miss Shirley’s Café: Bite into a taste of the south. This family-owned restaurant serves up Chicken ‘N Waffles, Shrimp & Grits, and other homestyle hits. (Concourse A, post-security)
Flying Dog Tap House: Enjoy the flavors of Maryland right at your table. This restaurant stocks itself on beer from Maryland’s largest brewery and local ingredients straight from the farm. (Concourse A/B, post-security)
Obrycki’s Restaurant & Bar: Grab a bite of the freshest crabcakes in Maryland. Additionally, you can dive into a slew of menu items centered around this seafood star. (Concourse B, post-security)
Harbor Grille: This American restaurant offers up everything from seafood to steak. Paired with craft cocktails and beers, visitors can enjoy a delightful meal from start to finish. (Concourse C, post-security)
The Green Turtle: Pull up a seat and relax in this sports bar hangout. Munch away on pub favorites and enjoy a game while you wait for takeoff. (Concourse D, post-security)
Passports Bar & Grill: For a classic American menu, try out this favorite for burgers, sandwiches, and delicious wings. (Concourse E, post-security)
In a hurry? Of course, you can always grab a quick bite or sweet treat from nationwide staples like Auntie Anne’s, Cinnabon, Einstein Bros. Bagels, and more.
Top 10 Departures Out of BWI
More than 650 daily flights operate out of BWI to cities in the US and abroad. If you’re looking to catch your next getaway somewhere fun, these are the hottest destinations out of Baltimore, Maryland.
1. Atlanta
Delta, Frontier, Southwest, and Spirit fly nonstop routes between BWI and Atlanta.
2. Fort Lauderdale
This south Florida destination garners almost a dozen daily flights on Southwest and Spirit.
3. Orlando
Orlando has always been a hotspot for family vacations. Accordingly, three airlines—Frontier, Southwest, and Spirit—service around a dozen nonstop flights here per week.
4. Boston
Southwest is the only airline to fly this route from the BWI Airport to Boston on several daily flights.
5. Charlotte
Half a dozen flights are flown daily between BWI and Charlotte, mainly on American Airlines but a few on Southwest.
6. Denver
Denver is a popular destination. As a result, Frontier, Southwest, and United all operate daily flights here from Thurgood Marshall Airport.
7. Chicago
Travelers out of the BWI Airport flying into Chicago have two airport options at their disposal. O’Hare is serviced by American, Southwest, and United, while Midway is serviced solely by Southwest Airlines.
8. Tampa
Around half a dozen daily flights head out from BWI to Tampa, serviced by Southwest and Spirit Airlines.
9. Detroit
Delta and Southwest Airlines share this route, servicing a handful of daily flights to Detroit.
10. Los Angeles
Passengers hoping to fly out to the City of Angels can catch a flight on a range of airlines: Southwest, Spirit, and United.
Next Vacay Can Send the Best Washington, DC Airport Deals Straight to Your Inbox
The nation’s capital has the hookup for flights, no matter where you’re flying from or which Washington, DC airport you choose for your arrival.
And if you want the hookup to score all the best deals on flights in and out of these bustling airports, Next Vacay is your one-stop destination to get them!
Once you’re signed up, you can customize your airport preferences to see deals from the airports that work for you. From there, our team of experts finds and verifies each deal so that you can save big flying to DC and countless other destinations.
The world is only one deal away, so find it with Next Vacay!
